By now, you’ve probably heard of the trending ‘cloud skin’ make-up look in the beauty space. The full matte look had its moment, as well as the glassy glow. The cloud skin look falls somewhat in the middle, focusing on a soft-focus, velvety finish that makes you look like you have a real-life filter on. Think of it as a blurred, diffused glow that feels wearable for both everyday life and special occasions. But can you achieve this look with South African products that are accessible and effective? Of course – and we’ll show you how.
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Step 1: Prep with skincare
Always start with a well-hydrated base. Cleanse the skin and apply a lightweight moisturiser such as Africology Moisturiser or Skin Creamery’s Everyday Cream. Moisture will keep the skin plump while preventing your foundation from looking flat. Finish with a primer like Iconic London Velvet Smooth Pore Refining Primer, which will give you that air-brushed finish.
Step 2: All about the base
Ditch the heavy foundation and go for a buildable option to create a natural finish. Sorbet Cover & Go Foundation or MAC Studio Radiance Serum-Powdered Foundation are excellent picks. The key is in the usage: Apply a thin layer with a damp sponge to diffuse coverage, so skin looks like skin. Conceal only where needed, keeping the overall effect seamless. Try L’oréal True Match Concealer.
Step 3: Diffused dimension
For a soft, cloud-like glow, opt for cream and liquid products. Consider a cream blush such as Swiitch Beauty’s Bubble Blush Stick on the apples of the cheeks, and blend upwards for a natural flush. If you want to add warmth, which we recommend you do, try Maybelline Sunkiss Liquid Blush and Bronzer. Tap on a liquid highlighter like Hey Gorgeous Liquid Highlighter for lovely luminosity.
Step 4: Powder with precision
Remember, cloud skin is all about soft focus, not flat matte. Dust a light layer of Yardley Absolute Translucent Powder or WBeauty Translucent Loose Powder, but only on areas that tend to shine (T-zone). Leave the cheeks and high points radiant.
Step 5: Finishing touches
It’s best to keep the lips and eyes quite understated to complement the look. Try Catrice Full Satin Nude Lipstick, and finish with fluttery lashes using Essence Lash Princess Mascara, which is reported to add definition without the heaviness.
Cloud skin is mostly about balance and technique, not super expensive products. With South African beauty brands offering hydrating skincare and skin-perfecting powders, you can achieve blurred skin that looks polished, natural and dreamy.
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